Source: CemNet, 25 June 2025
The UK’s cement industry faces an existential threat unless the government strengthens its commitment to domestic supply chains, according to a stark warning from the Mineral Products Association (MPA). While the MPA welcomed the UK government’s new 10-year infrastructure strategy, it cautioned that without stronger support for the materials sector—particularly cement—the plan risks falling short of its ambitions.
The government’s strategy includes reforms to public sector procurement aimed at favouring UK-based suppliers, a move widely welcomed by domestic manufacturers. However, the MPA says this is only a first step. Diana Casey, executive director for cement at the MPA, emphasized that a reliable domestic cement supply is essential to deliver critical national infrastructure—from power stations like Sizewell C to transport, water, and housing networks.
“The UK’s cement industry is at risk of disappearing,” Casey said. “Imports have tripled in the last 20 years, driven by high industrial energy costs and carbon pricing that disadvantages UK producers.”
The MPA argues that persistent policy inconsistency—such as project delays, descoping, or cancellations—undermines both industry confidence and investment. The association is urging the government to implement a procurement framework that actively prioritizes UK-made cement, ensuring economic resilience, job retention in regional areas, and the delivery of essential infrastructure.
“Backing domestic production through smarter procurement will not only secure skilled jobs, but also help the government achieve its infrastructure goals,” Casey added.
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